UV germicidal system, method, and device thereof

ABSTRACT

A germicidal system for use in disinfecting a human interface device includes at least one human interface device. One or more ultra-violet (UV) light sources are used in proximity to the at least one human interface device for disinfecting a touch surface of the human interface device below a surgical grade sterilization. A memory for storing usage data of the at least one UV light source. At least one server is used for providing a central storage location for usage data supplied from the memory and a computer is used in communication with the at least one server for controlling the operational parameters of the at least one UV light source.

CROSS REFERENCE RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.13/697,670, which is the U.S. National Phase under 35 U.S.C. § 371 ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2011/035985, filed May 10, 2011,which designated the United States and which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/333,065, filed on May 10, 2010,the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to portable lighting and morespecifically to a communications system for importing and exporting datato and from a germicidal system for use in disinfecting a humaninterface device.

BACKGROUND

Portable lighting can be used with electronic devices to illuminatevarious areas of the device. In some cases, the lighting may be outsidethe visible spectrum of some predetermined frequency spectrum and usesto accomplish a specific purpose. In these instances, providingcontrolling software as well as importing and exporting data to portablelighting devices can be burdensome in situations where many devices areused throughout a building or complex.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention a germicidal system foruse in disinfecting a human interface device includes at least one humaninterface device and at least one ultra-violet (UV) light source inproximity to the at least one human interface device for disinfecting atouch surface of the human interface device below a surgical gradesterilization. At least one server is used for storing usage datasupplied by the at least UV light source.

According to another aspect of the present invention a germicidal systemfor use in disinfecting a human interface device includes at least onehuman interface device, at least one ultra-violet (UV) light source inproximity to the at least one human interface device for disinfecting atouch surface of the human interface device below a surgical gradesterilization, a memory for storing usage data of the at least one UVlight source; and at least one server for providing a central storagelocation for usage data supplied from the memory.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a germicidalsystem for use in disinfecting a human interface device at least onehuman interface device includes at least one ultra-violet (UV) lightsource in proximity to the at least one human interface device fordisinfecting a touch surface of the human interface device below asurgical grade sterilization, a memory for storing usage data of the atleast one UV light source, at least one server for providing a centralstorage location for usage data supplied from the memory; and a computerin communication with the at least one server for controlling theoperational parameters of the at least one UV light source.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a germicidalsystem for use in disinfecting a human interface device includes afastening assembly. The fastening assembly includes a lamp housing; anadjustable attachment device extending from the lamp housing and a UVlight source at least partially enclosed in the lamp housing. Anengagement member and a receptacle housing such that the engagementmember is removably fastened within the receptacle housing for holdingthe lamp housing in a fixed position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described, by way of example, withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a germicidal system, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an environmental view of a germicidal system, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a environmental view of a germicidal system, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a germicidal system, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a germicidal system, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a germicidal system, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a germicidal system, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a germicidal system, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an environmental view of a germicidal system, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is an environmental view of a germicidal system, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is an environmental view of a plurality of germicidal systems,in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is an environmental view of a plurality of germicidal systems,in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an environmental view of a germicidal system, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is an environmental view of a germicidal system, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is an environmental view of a plurality of germicidal systems,in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a germicidal system integrated with alaptop computer, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a laptop computer that includes anintegrated germicidal system, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 18A is a schematic diagram of a germicidal system configured toproject a UV illumination pattern through a translucent material, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18B is a schematic diagram of a germicidal system configured toproject a UV illumination pattern through a translucent material, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19A is a side view of a UV lamp, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 19B is a top view of the UV lamp of FIG. 19A;

FIG. 19C is a table describing exemplary specifications of the UV lampof FIGS. 19A and 19B;

FIG. 20A is a side view of a UV short wavelength lamp, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20B is a table describing exemplary specifications of the UV shortwavelength lamp of FIG. 20A;

FIG. 21A is a side view of a UV short wavelength lamp, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21B is a table describing exemplary specifications of the UV shortwavelength lamp of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 22A is a side view of a UV short wavelength lamp, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22B is a table describing exemplary specifications of the UV shortwavelength lamp of FIG. 22A;

FIG. 23A is a top view of a power supply, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23B is a side view of a power supply, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23C is a top view of a circuit board of a power supply, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23D is a table describing exemplary tolerances of the power supplyof FIGS. 23A-23C;

FIG. 24A is a circuit schematic of a power supply, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 24B and 24C are tables describing exemplary specifications of thecircuit illustrated in FIG. 24A;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a method of at least partiallydisinfecting a touch surface of a human interface device, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a method of at least partiallydisinfecting a touch surface of a human interface device, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a keyboard having a translucent surfaceand an integrated germicidal system, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a mouse having a translucent surfaceand an integrated germicidal system, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a schematic of one embodiment of a State Transition Diagramof the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a schematic of one embodiment of a motion sensor circuit ofthe present invention;

FIG. 31 is a schematic of one embodiment of a power supply and/or USBpower supply of the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a schematic of embodiments of (1) an on/off switch, (2) aclean now switch, and (3) a programming header;

FIG. 33 is a schematic of an embodiment of a DC to AC inverter of thepresent invention;

FIG. 34 is a schematic of an embodiment of a microcontroller and LEDindicators of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is a schematic of an embodiment of operator inputs andindicators of the present invention;

FIG. 36 is a schematic of an embodiment of a PIR sensor circuit of thepresent invention;

FIG. 37 is a schematic of an embodiment of filters and amplifiers of thepresent invention;

FIG. 38 is a schematic of a comparator of an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 39 is a schematic of an embodiment of a PIR signal output of thepresent invention;

FIG. 40 is a schematic of an embodiment of a DC to AC inverting circuitof the present invention;

FIG. 41 is a schematic of an embodiment of a CCFL Royer Inverter circuitof the present invention;

FIG. 42 is a chart of embodiment of a LTSpice simulation of the presentinvention;

FIG. 43 is another chart of an embodiment of an LTSpice simulation ofthe present invention.

FIG. 44 is a block diagram illustrating a system for communicating UVlighting information to the integrated germicidal system in accordancewith another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 45 is a flow chart diagram illustrating general options that areavailable for the integrated germicidal system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 46 is a flow chart diagram illustrating timing options that areavailable for the integrated germicidal system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 47 is a flow chart diagram illustrating various reporting data thatis available for the integrated germicidal system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 48 is a flow chart diagram illustrating password security optionsthat are available for the integrated germicidal system in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the UV lighting assembly in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 50 is a front elevational view illustrating the UV lightingassembly attached to a personal computer for use in disinfecting thekeyboard.

FIG. 51 is an exploded view of a portable light fastening assembly inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 52 is an assembled view of a portable light fastening assemblyillustrating the mounting surface of a receptacle housing in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 53 is an assembled view of a portable light fastening assembly withthe lock fastened in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 54 is an assembled view of the portable light fastening assemblywith the lock unfastened in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 55 illustrates a perspective view of the portable light fasteningassembly, shown in FIG. 54, used in combination with a table stand fordisinfecting in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 56 illustrates a perspective view of the portable light fasteningassembly used with a point of sale device mount in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 57 illustrates a side view of the portable light fastening assemblyas seen in FIG. 56.

FIG. 58 illustrates a perspective view of the portable light fasteningassembly as shown in FIG. 56 used on a point of sale device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before describing in detail embodiments that are in accordance with thepresent invention, it should be observed that the embodiments includecombinations of method steps and apparatus components related to agermicidal system and method thereof. Accordingly, the apparatuscomponents and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, byconventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specificdetails that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of thepresent invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details thatwill be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art havingthe benefit of the description herein. Further, like referencecharacters in the description and drawings represent like elements.

Certain terminology will be used in the following description forconvenience and reference only, and will not be limiting. For example,the words “upwardly,” “downwardly,” “rightwardly,” and “leftwardly” willrefer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Thewords “inwardly” and “outwardly” will refer to directions toward andaway from, respectively, the geometric center of the system anddesignated parts. Said terminology will include the words specificallymentioned, derivatives, and similar words. Also, “connected to,”“secured to,” or similar language includes the definitions “indirectlyconnected to,” “directly connected to,” “indirectly secured to,” and“directly secured to.”

In this document, relational terms, such as first and second, top andbottom, and the like, may be used to distinguish one entity or actionfrom another entity or action, without necessarily requiring or implyingany actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.The terms “comprises,” “comprising,' or any other variation thereof, areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process,method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does notinclude only those elements but may include other elements not expresslylisted or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Anelement proceeded by “comprises . . . a” does not, without moreconstraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements inthe process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

With respect to exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-15, agermicidal system is generally shown at reference identifier 100.Typically, the germicidal system 100 is configured for at leastpartially disinfecting a human interface device generally indicated atreference identifier 102, which can include a touch surface 104. Thegermicidal system 100 can include a housing 106 that defines an aperture108, and an adjustable attachment device 110 that extends from thehousing 106, wherein the adjustable attachment device 110 can beconfigured to removably attach to the human interface device 102. Thegermicidal system 100 can further include an ultra-violet (UV) lightsource 112 that can be at least partially enclosed in the housing 106,wherein the UV light source 112 can be configured to project anillumination pattern at least partially defined by the aperture 108 anda position of the adjustable attachment device 110, such that theillumination pattern substantially corresponds to the touch surface 104of the human interface device 102. Additionally, a sensor 114 can beincluded in the germicidal system 100, wherein the sensor 114 can be incommunication with the UV light source 112, and the sensor 114 can beconfigured to detect an object 116 proximate to the housing 106. Thegermicidal system 100 can also include a processor 118 in communicationbetween the UV light source 112 and the sensor 114, wherein theprocessor 118 can be configured to activate the UV light source 112 whenthe sensor 114 has not detected the object 116 within a first timeperiod, and deactivate the UV light source 112 when one of the sensor114 detects the object 116 and a second time period has expired, suchthat the illumination pattern projected by the UV light source 112disinfects the touch surface 104 of the human interface device 102 belowa surgical grade sterilization, as described in greater detail herein.

For purposes of explanation and not limitation, in operation, thegermicidal system 100 can be attached to the human interface device 102and adjusted to project the illumination pattern from the UV lightsource 112 onto the touch surface 104 when a user is not using the humaninterface device 102. Typically, the sensor 114 is used to detect a userproximate to the human interface device 102 in order to prevent the UVlight source 112 from projecting the illumination pattern during use ofthe human interface device 102. The touch surface 104 can be disinfectedwhen the human interface device 102 is not being used, such that anytimethe human interface device 102 is not used for a time period (e.g., thefirst time period), the germicidal system 100 disinfects the touchsurface 104. Thus, the touch surface 104 can be at least partiallydisinfected between uses of the human interface device 102.

The UV light source 112 can be a light source configured to emit lightin the UV-C wavelength band. However, it should be appreciated by thoseskilled in the art that the UV light source 112 can be configured toemit light at other wavelengths, which are adapted to disinfect thetarget area. By way of explanation and not limitation, as exemplaryillustrated in FIGS. 19A-22, the UV light source 112 can be a UV shortwavelength lamp. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the artthat other suitable germicidal light sources can be used alternativelyor in addition to the UV light source 112. According to one embodiment,the UV light source 112 can be a five Watt (5 W) to fifteen Watt (15 W)bulb; however, the UV light source 112 can be a lesser or greaterwattage bulb, such as, but not limited to, a three-quarters Watt (0.75W) bulb.

According to one embodiment the germicidal system 100 can furtherinclude an alignment light source 120 that can be configured to projectan illumination pattern adapted to direct alignment of the adjustableattachment device 110, such that the UV light source 112 can besubstantially aligned with the touch surface 104 of the human interfacedevice 102. In such an embodiment, when the germicidal system 100 isturned on, the alignment light source 120 can illuminate an alignmentillumination pattern that can identify to the user the anticipatedillumination pattern of the UV light source 112, so that the UV lightsource 112 can be directed towards a desirable target area. According toone embodiment, the target area can be an area that is approximately thesame size and shape as the touch surface 104, and substantiallyoverlapping therewith. Thus, the illumination pattern can substantiallycorrespond with the target area. The alignment light source 120 can beat least partially enclosed in the housing 106.

Typically, the aperture 108 can be sized and shaped to reduce anexposure of UV light to areas outside the boundaries that define thedesirable target area. According to one embodiment, the aperture 108 canbe at least partially defined by a flange or skirt extending from thehousing 106 and at least partially around the UV light source 112. Thus,the flange can reduce side exposure incidents at low side angles withrespect to the UV light source 112. Additionally or alternatively, theflange can reduce side exposure incidents with respect to a front, aback, or a combination thereof, of the UV light source 112.

According to one embodiment, a lens 119 can be configured to at leastpartially extend over the aperture 108. The lens 119 can provideprotection for the UV light source 112; affect the UV illuminationpattern projected by the UV light source 112, the like, or a combinationthereof. Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of aninterior and/or an exterior of the housing 106 can be coated with areflective material, such that at least a portion of the UV illuminationpattern that is directed away from the target area can be reflected andre-directed towards the target area.

By way of explanation and not limitation, the alignment light source 120can be a light amplification by simulated emission of radiation (LASER)device placed on an underside of the housing 106, or at least partiallyenclosed therein. The alignment light source 120 can be approximatelyparallel to a front edge of the UV illumination pattern projected by theUV light source 112. Thus, the alignment light source 120 can assist inaccurately positioning the angle of the UV light source 112, so that theUV illumination pattern can be substantially aligned with a front edgeof the target area. According to one embodiment, the alignment lightsource 120 can be activated for approximately thirty seconds (30 s) whenthe germicidal system 100 is initially powered ON. Further, thegermicidal system 100 can include a switch for manually activatingand/or deactivating the alignment light source 120. After the alignmenttime period has expired and the alignment light source 120 has beenturned OFF, the germicidal system 100 can be configured to determine adistance between the UV light source 112 and the target area.

According to one embodiment, a distance sensor 121 can be utilized todetermine an approximate distance between the UV light source 112 andthe target area. The determined distance can then be used to determinean intensity of the UV illumination pattern projected by the UV lightsource 112 and the time period for which the UV light source willproject the UV illumination pattern. These three variables, or acombination thereof, can be approximately optimized to increase thedisinfection of the target area. However, in an embodiment that does notinclude a distance sensor 121, a static equation (e.g., an estimateddistance, intensity, and ON time period) can be utilized based uponexpected operating conditions.

By way of explanation and not limitation, the time period can range fromseconds to one or more minutes (e.g., thirty seconds (30 s) to fourminutes (4 min)) depending upon the distance between the UV light source112 and the target area, an intensity of the UV light source 112, thelike, or a combination thereof. These variables can also be determinedas a function of a UV output rating of the UV light source 112.

Additionally or alternatively, the germicidal system 100 can include atleast one indicator light source 122 that can be configured to emitlight that corresponds to at least one of an operating light conditionof the UV light source 112, a disinfectant status of the touch surface104 of the human interface device 102, a selected delay time period(e.g., the first time period), the like, or a combination thereof.Typically, the at least one indicator light source 122 includes aplurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs), wherein the LEDs can bedifferent colors. By way of explanation and not limitation, a green LEDcan be used to show that the touch surface 104 is disinfected; a yellowLED can be used to indicate that the touch surface 104 is notdisinfected, and a red LED can be used to indicate that the UV lightsource 112 is on. Typically, only one of the green, yellow, and red LEDsis illuminated at a time. It should be appreciated by those skilled inthe art that the at least one indicator light source 122 can be othersuitable light sources, but not limited to, a multi-colored LED, one ormore single-colored LEDs, incandescent light sources with lens that areconfigured to affect a color of light output, the like, or a combinationthereof. The indicator light source 122 can be at least partiallyenclosed in the housing 106.

The one or more indicator light sources 122 can additionally oralternatively include light sources that correspond to a selected delaytime period (e.g., blue LEDs). Further, a selector button 123 can be atleast partially exposed from the housing 106 and configured to togglethrough the available delay time periods, wherein such toggling can beidentified by the one or more indicator lights 122.

According to one embodiment, the germicidal system 100 can be configuredto be in electrical communication with a direct current (DC) powersource. In such an embodiment, the DC power source can be in electricalcommunication with the UV light source 112 utilizing a universal serialbus (USB) connection 124. In an embodiment that includes the humaninterface device 102 being a laptop computer, the USB connection 124 canbe connected to the laptop to draw electrical power. Additionally oralternatively, the germicidal system 100 can include a five volt (5 v)cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) power supply, which can be inelectrical communication with the UV light source 112, the sensor 114,the processor 118, the alignment light source 120, the indicator lightsource 122, the like, or a combination thereof. It should be appreciatedby those skilled in the art that the germicidal system 100 can bepowered by an independent power supply, an energy storage device (e.g.,a battery) at least partially enclosed in the housing 106, a powerconverter, the like, or a combination thereof.

For purposes of explanation and not limitation, as exemplary illustratedin FIGS. 2, 3, 9-16, 26, and 27, respectively, the human interfacedevice 102 can be at least one of a laptop computer, a laptop computerkeyboard, a laptop touch pad, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen, acash register, an automated teller machine (ATM), a credit card paymentdevice, other touch surfaces, or a combination thereof. Thus, the UVlight source 112 can project the illumination pattern onto the targetarea, irradiating the target area between users accessing the humaninterface device 102 to at least partially disinfect the target area.

With regards to exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIG. 15, theadjustable attachment device 110 can be flexibly rigid stands thatextend from a keyboard. Thus, the UV light source 112 can project theillumination pattern on at least part of the keyboard, a mouse, andother touch surfaces on a work area, the like, or a combination thereof.In such an embodiment, the USB or other power connector can beintegrated with the adjustable attachment device 110.

Depending upon the type of human interface device 102, the housing 106can be configured to reduce the controls or switches that may beaccessible to the user (e.g., an ATM machine that is available to thepublic). In such an embodiment, an additional casing or shell can extendat least partially around the housing 106. Thus, the additional casingor shell can provided extra protection for the germicidal system 100from being damaged. Additionally or alternatively, manual controls(e.g., a manual switch to activate the UV light source 112) may not beincluded when the germicidal system 100 is used with such a humaninterface device 102, and instead, such controls can be implemented byutilizing one or more executable software routines stored on a memorydevice. In any of the embodiments, the one or more executable softwareroutines can be deleted, updated, or newly stored in the memory deviceutilizing the USB connection 124 or other suitable wired or wirelessconnection. The memory can also be used for storing parameters of thebulb such as total bulb hours, on/off times and sterilization cycles asdescribed herein. This information can be stored in the local memorydevice using locally and/or on-board the light or can be seen to apersonal computer (PC) or other computing device for processing and/orstorage. In this way, the information can be easily managed, analyzedand/or stored in memory at various other locations if necessary.

The sensor 114 can be a motion sensor, such as, but not limited to, aproximity sensor, according to one embodiment. Exemplary proximitysensors can be, but are not limited to, a capacitive sensor, aninductive sensor, an infrared sensor, a passive infrared sensor, a heator thermo sensor, an imager, the like, or a combination thereof. Thesensor 114 can be configured to detect motion in an area that at leastpartially encloses the target area, wherein the monitored area istypically greater than the target area, the touch surface 104, or acombination thereof. In such an embodiment, the sensor 114 can form an“umbrella” with respect to the UV illumination pattern projected by theUV light source 112, such that if motion is detected within the“umbrella,” the UV light source 112 can be turned OFF if the UV lightsource 122 is currently ON, in order to reduce UV exposure to the user.

The sensor 114 can be configured to function in conjunction with thekeyboard and/or mouse, such that if a user is typing with the keyboardand/or moving the mouse, the sensor 114 detects such activation andturns the UV light source OFF if the UV light source 112 is currentlyON, in order to reduce UV exposure to the user. In such an embodiment,if the keyboard and/or mouse are external to the germicidal system 100(e.g., not a laptop computer), the detection can be communicated to theprocessor 118 utilizing the USB connection 124, other suitable wired orwireless communication connection, or a combination thereof. In any ofthe sensor embodiments, the processor 118 can be configured to allow atime period (e.g., the first time period to expire) after a most recentdetection to increase a probability that a user will not be exposed tothe UV illumination pattern projected by the UV light source 112. Forpurposes of explanation and not limitation, the first time period can beapproximately sixty seconds (60 s).

According to one embodiment, the germicidal system 100 can include oneor more override buttons or switches 128. One exemplary override buttoncan be a button that is activated to turn the UV light device 112 ONprior to the expiration of the delay time period. Such an overridebutton 128 can be an emergency OFF button. An additional or alternativeexemplary override button can be a button that is activated to turn thealignment light source 120 ON or OFF. Yet another additional oralternative override embodiment can include detection of movement of theadjustable attachment device 110 beyond predetermined angles of any axisand/or quick movement (e.g., accelerometer).

With regards to FIG. 25, a method of at least partially disinfecting atouch surface 104 of the human interface device 102 is generally shownat reference identifier 200. The method 200 can start at step 202 andproceed to step 204, wherein the germicidal system 100 is turned ON. Atdecision step 206, it is determined if motion is detected. Typically,motion is detected by utilizing the one or more sensors 114. If it isdetermined at decision step 206 that motion is detected, the method 200continues to have the UV light source 112 OFF and starts the delayperiod clock or timer over, and returns to the step 206. However, if itis determined at decision step 206 that motion is not detected, then themethod 200 proceeds to decision step 208.

At decision step 208, it is determined if a delay period has expired.According to one embodiment, the delay period can range fromapproximately sixty seconds (60 s) to one hundred twenty seconds (120s). It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the delaytime period can be a period of time adequately long enough to make areasonable assumption that the user is at least temporarily done usingthe human interface device 102, such that the user is distant from thehuman interface device 102 (e.g., no part of the user is within the areaof the UV illumination pattern projected by the UV light source 112). Ifit is determined at decision step 208 that the delay time period has notexpired, then the method 200 returns to step 206. However, if it isdetermined at decision step 208 that the delay period has expired, themethod 200 proceeds to step 210. At step 210, the UV light source 112 isturned ON.

The method 200 proceeds from step 210 to decision step 212, wherein itis determined if motion is detected. Typically, the motion is detectedusing one or more sensors 114. If it is determined at decision step 212that motion is not detected, the method 200 proceeds to decision step214. However, if it is determined at decision step 212 that motion isdetected, then the method 200 proceeds to step 216, wherein the UV lightsource 112 is turned OFF.

At decision step 214 it is determined if the ON time period has expired.Typically, the ON time period is approximately sixty seconds (60 s), butcan be dependent upon the distance between the UV light source 112 andthe target area, the intensity of the UV light source 112, the like, ora combination thereof. If it is determined at decision step 214 that thedisinfectant or ON time period is not expired, then the method 200returns to step 212. However, if it is determined at decision step 214that the ON time period has expired, then the method 200 proceeds tostep 216, and the method 200 can then end at step 218. It should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the method 200 can returnto step 206 from step 216, such that the method 200 is continuouslyimplemented so as long as the germicidal system 100 is supplied withelectrical power or otherwise manually turned OFF.

Typically, the one or more indicator light sources 122 can be used inconjunction with the method 200, such that the different method stepsthat are currently being implemented are identified to the user via theuse of the indicator light source 102. For purposes of explanation andnot limitation, when the device is turned ON at step 204, a yellowindicator light source 122 can be illuminated to indicate that thetarget area is non-sterile (e.g., the target area has been touched morerecently than the UV light source 112 being ON). During steps 210, 212,and 214, wherein the UV light source 112 is ON, a red LED indicatorlight source 122 can be utilized. In step 216, the green LED lightindicator light source 122 can be utilized to indicate that the targetarea has been at least partially disinfected; however, this indicatorlight source 122 is typically only used if the UV light source 112 isturned OFF due to the ON time period expiring rather than if motion isdetected. When the green LED indicator light source 122 is ON, and thesensor 114 detects a user, the processor 118 can be configured to turnthe green LED indicator light source 122 OFF and turn the yellow LEDindicator light source 122 ON.

According to one embodiment, the germicidal system 100 can include anauto disabling device, such that if the adjustable attachment device 110is altered beyond predetermined angles of any axis and/or quick movement(e.g. accelerometer), the UV light source 112 can be turned OFF.Additionally or alternatively, the UV light source 112 can be configuredto emit the UV illumination pattern at a reduced intensity, such thatthe ON time period is increased. According to one embodiment, theprocessor 118 can be configured to have an autotimer override to turnOFF the UV light source 112 to prevent prolonged irradiation, in thecase of a system malfunction.

According to an alternate embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 26, amethod of at least partially disinfecting a touch surface 104 of thehuman interface device 102 is generally shown at reference identifier300. The method 300 starts at step 302, and proceeds to step 304,wherein a power button is pressed. According to one embodiment, it isdetermined if the power button has been pressed and released for a timeperiod that exceeds a threshold value (e.g., greater than two seconds (2s)). The method 300 can proceed from step 304 to step 322, such thatwhen the germicidal system 100 is turned ON, the yellow LED indicatorlight source 122 is turned ON.

However, the method 300 can start at step 306 when a manual overridebutton (e.g., override button 128) is activated or pressed. The method300 can then proceed to step 308. At step 308, the UV light source 112is turned ON and the timer is started based upon the selected delay timeperiod. Typically, the selected delay time period is shown to a user byilluminating a corresponding indicator light source 122 (e.g., a blueLED), and the red LED indicator light source 122 is illuminated toindicate that the UV light source 112 is ON. At decision step 310, it isdetermined if motion is detected. If it is determined at decision step310 that motion has not been detected, then the method 300 proceeds todecision step 312. At decision step 312 it is determined if the timer(e.g., twenty five seconds (25 s)) has elapsed without motion beingdetected. If it is determined at decision step 312, that the time periodhas not elapsed without motion being detected, then the method 300proceeds to step 314, wherein the timer continues to count towardsexpiration of the time period. The method 300 can then return todecision step 310 to determine if motion has been detected. If it isdetermined at decision step 312 that the delay time period has elapsed,the method 300 then proceeds to step 316. At step 316 the timer isstopped, the UV light source 112 is turned OFF, and the green LEDindicator light source 122 can be illuminated to indicate that the touchsurface 104 is at least partially illuminated.

The method 300 then proceeds to step 318, wherein the germicidal system100 is in a waiting state with the UV light source 112 OFF and the greenLED indicator light source 122 illuminated. At step 320, motion isdetected, which is typically determined based upon the sensor 114detecting motion. At step 322, the red LED indicator light source 122 isilluminated to indicate that the UV light source 112 is turned ON orwill be turned ON. Further, if it is determined at decision step 310that motion has been detected, then the method 300 proceeds to step 322,wherein the red LED indicator light source 122 is turned ON.

At decision step 324 it is determined if the power output of the UVlight source 112 is ON. If it is determined at decision step 324 thatthe UV light source 112 is ON, then the method 300 proceeds to step 326,wherein the power output of the UV light source 112 is turned OFF. If itis determined at decision step 324 that the power output of the UV lightsource is not ON or after step 326 is performed, the method 300 proceedsto step 328. At step 328 a timer is started, and the method 300 thenproceeds to decision step 330. At decision step 330 it is determined ifmotion has been sensed. If it is determined at decision step 330 thatmotion has been sensed, then the method 300 returns to step 328.However, if it is determined at decision step 330 that motion has notbeen sensed, then the method 300 proceeds to step 332. At decision step332 it is determined if a time period (e.g., five seconds (5 s)) haselapsed. If it is determined at decision step 332 that the time periodhas not elapsed, the method 300 proceeds to step 334, wherein the timercontinues counting towards expiration. However, if it is determined atdecision step 332 that the time period has elapsed, then the method 300proceeds to step 308. It should be appreciated by those skilled in theart that the method 300 can continue to be executed until electricalpower is disconnected from the germicidal system 100 or when thegermicidal system 100 is otherwise turned OFF.

With respect to an alternate embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 16, thegermicidal system 100′ can be integrated with the human interface device102 (e.g., a laptop computer). In such an embodiment, the UV lightsource 112 can be integrated at the top of the laptop screen anddirected towards the keyboard and touchpad area. Further, the sensor 114can be one or more infrared transmitters that correspond to one or moreinfrared receivers, such that the processor 118 can be configured todetermine not to activate the UV light source 112 if substantially allof the IR light transmitted is not received by the one or more IRreceivers. Thus, when such IR sensors are incorporated into thegermicidal system 100′, the IR sensors can detect when at least aportion of the user is within the target area, but are substantiallymotionless (e.g., the user's hands are on a keyboard within the targetarea, but not typing).

As illustrated in FIG. 16, the UV light source 112 and sensor 114 areillustrated as being at the top of an LCD screen. However, it should beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the UV light source 112and/or the sensor 114 can be located on different sides, the top, thebottom, or a combination thereof of the LCD screen, so long as the UVlight source 112 can adequately project the UV illumination pattern onthe target area.

Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment where the germicidalsystem 100′ can be integrated in a laptop device, the germicidal system100′ can be configured to turn ON the UV light source 112 when thelaptop is in a closed position. In such an embodiment, the UV lightsource 112 can be juxtaposed to the target area, and thus, due to areduced distance, as compared to other embodiments, the intensity, theON time period, the like, or a combination thereof, can be reduced.According to one embodiment, the UV light source 112 can be locatedbehind the LCD screen. As exemplary illustrated in FIG. 17, the exteriorhousing of the laptop computer can include one or more indicator lightsources 122 that indicate to a user if the UV light source 112 is ON, ifa partial disinfectant has taken place, or no disinfectant has takenplace.

According to an additional or alternative embodiment, the UV lightsource 112 can be placed behind devices that have a translucent surface,such as a keyboard (FIG. 27), a mouse (FIG. 28), or a hand rest area ofa laptop computer, such that the UV light source 112 can project the UVillumination pattern through these translucent devices. Typically, theUV light source 112 can project a sufficient amount of UV illuminationto pass through the translucent material and at least partiallydisinfect the surfaces, without projecting an excessive amount of UVrays that would affect a surface distant to the translucent surface(FIGS. 18A and 18B). By way of explanation and not limitation, thetranslucent devices can have a very low power UV light source 112 behindthe touch surface thereof that irradiates the surface whenever a user isnot sensed. The above-described sensing methodologies and delay timescan be used to determine dormant time periods that the irradiation couldoccur. The UV light source 112 can be minimally separated from thetarget area so that a very low output source for a short period of timecan have an adequate disinfecting effect on the target area, such thatexposure to a surface distant to the translucent surface can beminimally affected by the UV illumination pattern user at a normaloperating distance would have minimal adverse effects. Further, thetranslucent material can be designed to diffuse UV light, while notaffecting the germicidal effect, but decreasing damaging potential tosurfaces distance from the UV light source 112 (FIG. 18B).

Advantageously, the germicidal system 100, 100′ and method 200, 300 canbe used to reduce the risk of bacteria or virus transmission on humaninterface devices 102 that are typically used by more than one person(e.g., medical environments, educational institutions, libraries,government entities, business, etc.), wherein it may be impractical touse sprays or wipes because physically touching the surfaces can easilypress the keys or mouse and produce erroneous data entries. However,failure to disinfect these surfaces can increase the likelihood oftransmission of contagions between staff members and patients and/orother persons. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatadditional or alternative advantages may be present based upon thegermicidal system 100, 100′ and method 200, 300. It should further beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the elements of thegermicidal system 100, 100′ and method 200, 300 can be combined inalternative ways not expressly described herein.

FIG. 29 is a schematic of one embodiment of a State Transition Diagramof the present invention. This may represent one embodiment of certainfunctionalities of the present invention. For example, after a 10 minuteidle time, if the device is on, a timer may activate the device to turnon, and clean the designated target. This may be referred to as step2000. Alternatively, the activation of the device may be manuallycontrolled. Similarly the deactivation may be manually controlled by,for example, use of an off button 3000. If any motion is sensed 3100,then this may deactivate the unit.

FIG. 29 also illustrates an embodiment of the use of indicator lights3200. For example, when the device is on, a red indicator light 3200 mayturn on to inform people that the device is on. A green light 3300 mayindicate that the light is off. Yellow or flashing lights may also beused.

FIGS. 30-34 are schematics of possible embodiments of certain circuitryof the present invention.

FIG. 35 illustrates a possible configuration of the components of thepresent invention. For example of a motion sensor 3400 may be operablyconnected to a processor 3500, and the processor 3500 may be operablyconnected to a UV-C bulb 3800 to deactivate the device if motion isdetected. Similarly, the motion sensor 3400 may activate the device ifno motion is detected for a certain period of time. The processor 3700may be operably connected to a UV-C bulb 3800 to turn on or off the bulb3800. The device may have manual controls, such as an on/off button 3600to manually control and optionally override any automatic settings.Indicator lights 3800 may alert and inform people as to the status ofthe device, i.e. on, off, or other notifications may be provided.circuit of the present invention;

FIGS. 36-38 illustrate a possible PIR sensor circuit, filter/amplifiers,or comparator of the present invention, respectively.

FIG. 39 illustrates a schematic of an embodiment of a PIR signal outputof the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a schematic of an embodiment of a DC to AC inverting circuitof the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a schematic of an embodiment of a CCFL Royer Inverter circuitof the present invention.

FIG. 42 is a chart of embodiment of a LTSpice simulation of the presentinvention.

FIG. 43 is another chart of an embodiment of a LTSpice simulation of thepresent invention.

The device of the present invention may be capable of automaticallycleaning most any material or environment, including solids, liquids,gas, or plasma. The device may be used to clean a computer keyboard,touch screens, mice, cash registers, ATM machines, kiosks, or anysurface that on which organisms may live, or viruses may be found.

The device may be used in virtually any environment, including, but notlimited to medical environments. The device may be powered via USB. Thedevice may utilize a 1 W UV-C Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp (CCFL). Thedevice may sense human interaction with a keyboard. The device may becompatible with both laptop and desktop keyboards.

In another embodiment, the present invention device tracks & recordsmetric data on its use & performance, including total time in use, totalbulb-on time, total completed disinfection cycles, and total 25%, 50%,75% completed cycles. The above data can be transmitted via the USBcable to a log file on the attached PC. A future web-based program couldharvest these log files from UV Angel-protected PC's on a local areanetwork, compiling the data for Infection Control documentation forHIPPAA, Marketing, etc. The device also has an inertial sensor likethose found in iPhone & Droids for determining its orientation in spaceto function as a tilt safety switch, and to detect human presence as asupplementary protection system to the Passive Infrared motion sensor.The device uses an LED progress display bar to give visual feedbackregarding current status in various timed modes (i.e. how far intodisinfection cycle). The device may be able to have its software updatedremotely through its USB interface to optimize various settings. Plasticabsorbs UV-C light. In one embodiment for example, the cleaning timewith 1 W bulb may be about 160 seconds at about 15″. This determinationmay consider factors such as intensity of the light, distance of thelight from its intended target, or the quantity or virulence of thepathogens to eliminate or reduce. Generally, different pathogens requirediffering amounts of UVC energy. Another factor to consider if theamount of reflective UVC energy, which may be directed in a direction ofnon-intended targets, such as a person.

In a further embodiment, the present invention may be powered by astandard USB port on a computer. Typical USB 2.0 standards allow devicesto draw up to 500 mA at 5V from a USB port. Therefore, a maximum of 2.5W of power can be drawn from a USB 2.0 port.

The power consumption for the major components of one embodiment of thepresent invention is shown in Table 1, below:

TABLE 1 Power Consumption for Major Components Component Current Draw(mA) Voltage (V) Power (mW) ATtiny24 7 5 35 LM324 3 5 15 Red LED 8.41.85 15.54 Blue LED 15 3.3 49.5 CCFL Inverter 250 5 1250 PIR Sensor 50.2 1 Total 1,366.04

From Table 1, it can be seen that the present invention may draw amaximum of 1.154 W of power in one embodiment.

Thus, a standard USB 2.0 port should have more than enough power tosupport the UV Angel.

In one embodiment the DC to AC Inverter may comprise a circuit that maydrive the selected 1 W Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp (CCFL). Thiscircuit needed to be capable of sourcing the required AC power to thelamp from the USB DC source. The voltage and current required to drivethe CCFL was given in its datasheet and can be seen in Table 1. The USBsource, which was assumed to be a standard USB 2.0 port, can source upto 500 mA at 5V.

TABLE 2 1 W CCFL Bulb Specifications Striking Operating Operating LampVoltage(Vstrike) Voltage (VCCFL) Current(ICCFL) Wattage 650 V rms 200 Vrms 5 ± 1 mA rms 1 W

Typical to standard CCFL drivers, a version of a Royer circuit may beimplemented to drive the CCFL. FIG. 1 depicts a typical Royer circuitimplemented in CCFL applications that need to convert DC power to ACpower. The major components that need to be determined for the CCFLcircuit are the two transistors, the bulk capacitor, the ballastcapacitor, and the transformer.

To begin the circuit design process, the turn ratio of the transformermust be determined. Using the strike voltage given for the CCFL, theturn ratio was calculated. Once the turn ratio was determined, atransformer was picked out that could source up to 1 W of power, had atleast the required amount of turns, and was relatively small in size. Inthis application, a Bourns PM61300-2-RC transformer was selected. Next,the ballast capacitor could be determined by assuming that the circuiton each side of the transformer would resonate at the same frequency.

In one embodiment, if the bulb or system draws 1 W of power is operatingat 5V, the maximum current that may be travelling through the primaryinductor would be 200 mA. Therefore the transistors each need to have acollector current rating of 100 mA since the current will be sharedbetween the two of them. In addition, an LTSpice simulation of thecircuit depicted that the voltage across the collector and emitter ofeach transistor was as high as 21V. With this information, a 2N3904transistor was selected. The 2N3904 has a collector emitter break downvoltage of 40V and an IC rating of up to 200 mA.

Common capacitor values for the ballast capacitor and build capacitormay then be about 68 pF and 330 nF respectively. The LTSpice circuit andsimulation results are shown in FIG. 41-43 respectively.

Another variation would be a carrying case for tablet devices like theApple iPad or similar devices that automatically disinfect the tablet'ssurfaces when the case is closed. The design of the case could be bookstyle, or the tablet could simply be inserted. The case would haveinternal UV-C light sources (or other antimicrobial energy source),possibly LED-based, that would illuminate the surfaces of the tabletfrom close proximity, so very low intensity would be required, requiringminimal exposure time and therefore minimal power. Power could come froman internal rechargeable battery, or even from the tablet device itself.A theoretical example picture is below, but in this design, the UV-C orother antimicrobial energy source would only fire when the lid wasclosed.

FIG. 44 is a block diagram illustrating a system for communicating UVlighting information to the integrated germicidal system in accordancewith still another embodiment of the invention. The system 4400 includesone or more human interface devices 4401, 4403, 4405 with each having arespective UV light source 4407. A server 4409 is connected to andcommunicates bidirectionally with each of the human interface devices4401, 4403, 4405. The server 4409 is a system (software and suitablecomputer hardware) that responds to requests from the network of humaninterface devices that enables the devices to provide and/or help toprovide, a network service. The network service can include, but is notlimited to storing operational and usage data of each of the UV lightsources 4407. The usage data can be stored directly in memory associatedwith the UV light source 4407 and/or may be transmitted wirelessly ortransmitted though a USB interface cable to the human interface devices4401, 4403, 4405. This type of networking configuration can allow anoperator at a central lactation to individually program, control and/orselect various user parameters without the need to set the parameters ateach individual device. Those skilled in the art will recognize that thesystem may be programmed using a physical keyboard, touch screen orvoice recognition. The method steps as described herein may also bestored on non-transitory computer readable media that may be stored inmemory on a UV light source.

FIG. 45 is a flow chart diagram illustrating general options 4500 thatare available for the integrated germicidal system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The process includes adjusting the lengthof disinfection 4501 e.g. how long the UV light source will remainactivated (“on”) which is typically between 30 seconds and 10 minutes.Adjusting the time of inactivity of the UV light source beforedisinfection begins 4503 is set which is typically in a range between 5seconds to 2 minutes. Thereafter, a unique sound such as a sound clipcan be selected 4505 that will warn the user when the disinfection cycleends. This sound feature can also be disabled 4507 so that no audiblesignal will be given when the disinfection cycle ends. Finally, adefault sounds clip 4509 can be selected or alternately a custom orunique sound clip can be used by the software to alert a user to the endof “on” cycle. Those skilled in the art will also recognize thatblinking light, vibration or other forms of alert can also be used toinform the user of the end of the disinfection cycle.

FIG. 46 is a flow chart diagram illustrating timing options 4600 thatare available for the integrated germicidal system in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The process begins with activation of oneor more LEDs used in connection with the work light 4601. The timeperiod upon which the LEDs will remain activated is set 4603 which istypically between 5 seconds and 2 minutes. An illumination delay 4605 isset 4605 which is typically between 1 second and 4 seconds. Theillumination delay is the delay in time before actuation of the worklight. Finally, the timing for the work light may also be automated suchthat it can be set in a range to turn on and off and specific times ofin a 24 hour day 4607. Thereafter, the process begins again such thatthese parameters can be continually set and/or adjusted. Thus, theparameters as setting bulb disinfecting cycles, times and durations canbe tracked by a memory on-board the each lighting device. Thisinformation can be stored and later uploaded to a central computer wherethis information as well as that of other devices can be analyzed,reported and or used to provide maintenance to a fleet of portablelights.

FIG. 47 is a flow chart diagram illustrating various reporting dataprocesses 4700 that are available for the integrated germicidal systemin accordance with an embodiment of the invention. A first reportgenerating processes begins where a working shift (1^(st), 2^(nd),3^(rd) etc.), is selected by the shift starting time 4701. For example,7 o'clock am. The shift length is then set which typically may be 8hours in length. Thereafter, a report can be generated 4711 ofoperational activity (on/off) of the UV light source during that time.In a second report generating process, a start date can be selected 4705as well as an end date 4702. A report can then be generated which isbased on calendar days. Finally, a third report generating processincludes setting a “quick” date 4709 that might include either thecurrent date (“today”), the last 7 days (week) or the last 30 days(month). Those skilled in the art will recognize the reporting formatmay vary but can be in a tabular and/or graphic format where time of usein on an X-axis and time period is on the Y-axis.

FIG. 48 is a flow chart diagram illustrating password security options4800 that are available for the integrated germicidal system inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention. The security processbeings where status lighting on the device is enabled or disabled 4801.The software controlling functionality of the task light and UV lightsource can be locked with a keyboard password 4803. Alternatively, otherforms of biometric or gesture passwords can be used to provide access tothe functional software of the UV light source. Finally, the passwordcan be changed 4805, and if changed, the old password is first entered4807 followed by the entering of a new password 4809. This process locksthe setting input by an administrator preventing them from being easilychanged by employees or other unauthorized persons.

Thus, the method as described herein works to allow a memory, such asEEPROM or the like, on the UV light, to read and/or transmit a UVlight's disinfection stats and total bulb hours. This data may beretrieved from memory on the device at any time and/or on a periodicbasis to an Internet service or Cloud. Using this process, persons suchas an Infection Control Officer at a large hospital can log into anetwork using the software methodology to set up an entire facility atmultiple locations, buildings, floors, departments etc, An administratorcan add an individual lighting device as necessary while defining itslocation and usage parameters. The software methodology allows a reportto be generated at any time on a date range specified by theadministrator by producing various selectable reports showingdisinfection statistics, remaining LED life to an individual lightingunit in bulb hours, etc. Eventually, the system will report and allow anadministrator to effect changes to a fleet of disinfection devices,controlling the disinfection cycle time lengths, bulb intensity and/orother metrics. The software methodology as described herein can also beimported or be tied into other databases for tracking infectionstatistics, for determining if there is a correlation betweendisinfection metrics and infection rates.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the UV lighting assembly 4900 inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention. The light 4900 includesa shade 4901 and a support member 4903 and support member 4905 that areintegrally connected to the rear of the shade. The support member 4903and support member 4905 connect with an engagement member 4906 and workto engage and/or mate with a receptacle housing 4907. In use, a surfaceof the receptacle housing 4909 can fastened using an adhesive, tape,hook and loop fastener, or other means for fastening the receptaclehousing 4909 to a surface of a personal computer (PC).

FIG. 50 is a front elevational view illustrating the UV lightingassembly 5000 attached to a personal computer for use in disinfectingthe keyboard. The light 5000 is illustrated mounted to the outer surfaceof the PC case behind the liquid crystal display (LCD). In use, UV-Clight rays are projected from above the LCD 5005 onto a keyboard 5003and typing surface 5004 for disinfecting microbial bacteria that may bepresent on the surface of the keyboard housing and the touch surface ofthe keys. The UV lighting assembly allows easy adjustment of the UVlight source to enable optimum disinfection without providing a dangerto the user's eyes.

FIG. 51 is a rear exploded view of a portable light fastening assembly5100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The portablelight fastening assembly 5100 includes a shade the forms a cover overone or more light generating devices. Those skilled in the art recognizethat the light generating devices may be incandescent bulbs, lightemitting diodes, gas discharge lamps and/or other forms of artificiallighting sources that can be electrically powered and covered by theshade 5101. At the rear portion 5103 of the shade 5101, a plurality ofsupport members 5105, 5107 attach to the rear portions of the shade5101. The support members 5103, 5105 may be substantially flat inappearance extending inwardly where they attach at a first end to anengagement member 5109. The position of the support member 5105, 5107,where it is attached to the engagement member 5109, forms a gap and/orspace between the engagement members 5105, 5107. This gap creates anattractive appearance and reduces the overall weight of the portablelight fastening assembly 5100.

The engagement member 5109 includes a top edge 5106 which connects withthe support members 5105, 5107. The engagement member 5109 includes aupper section 5108 that extends into a tapered body portion 5110. Thetapered body portion 5108 extends substantially orthogonally from thesupport member 5105, 5107. At the second end of the engagement member5109 the tapered body 5110 includes a lower edge 5115 that is smaller insize than the top edge 5106. Although shown with rounded corners, thelower edge 5115 may also have square corners depending on the lockingmechanism as described hereinafter. At one side of the engagement member5109, a notched section 5113 is positioned substantially midway betweenthe top edge 5106 and lower edge 5115. Although shown in FIG. 1 as arounded semicircular notch, the notched section 5113 may take the formof other shapes or appearances depending on the locking mechanism asdescribed herein.

As seen in FIG. 51, a locking mechanism includes a receptacle housing5117 that is sized and shaped to accept the engagement member 5109 intoan opening 5119 at the top portion of the receptacle housing 5117. Inuse, the back side of the receptacle housing 5117 is typically fastenedand/or removably attached to an outer surface of a personal computer(PC) or tablet for enabling the shade 5101 to extend over the PC'sliquid crystal display (LCD). This enables lighting mounted under theshade 5101 to project downwardly upon the LCD as well as the keyboardother areas to which a user is in contact.

When the engagement member 5109 is positioned within the receptaclehousing 5117, the lower edge 5115 of the engagement member 5109 extendsinto the housing to the lower edge 5123 of the housing. Those skilled inthe art will recognize the size and shape of the engagement member 5109substantially matches the internal size and configuration of thereceptacle housing 5117. The enables the shade 5101 to be held into afixed position when mounted to an electronic device. In order to preventthe engagement member 5109 from being retracted from the housing, thenotched section 5113 lines up with a latch 5125 positioned on one sideof the receptacle housing 5117. The latch 5125 is movable and adjustableso that a protuberance 5127 on one side of the latch 5125 makes matingcontact with the notched section 5113 while the engagement member 5109is within the receptacle housing 5117. As described herein, theprotuberance 5127 frictionally engages in the notched section 5113 forpreventing the engagement member 5109 from being retracted from the openportion 5119 of the receptacle housing 5117. Those skilled in the artwill recognize that the inside surface of the receptacle housing 5117may include a double sided tape, hook and/loop fastener or the like thatcan enable the inside surface 5120 to stick, adhere and/or bemechanically fastened to a portion of an outside surface housing or casethat protects the LCD of a personal computer.

FIG. 52 is a rear view of a portable light fastening assembly 5200 withthe lock fastened in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Theportable light assembly 5200 is illustrated with the support members5203, 5205 extending from the rear of the shade which join with theengagement member 5207. The engagement member 5207 rotates about point5209 and is shown inserted into the receptacle housing 5208 where thelatch 5213 is illustrated in a closed position. When closed, theprotuberance 5211 mates and/or engages within the notched section 5217so as to hold the engagement member 5207 into a fixed positionpreventing the shade 5201 from being retracted. Also shown in FIG. 4, aUSB port 5215 is used for allowing electrical power to be provided tothe portable light fastening assembly 5200. The USB port 5215 can alsobe used for accessing a memory device located within the shade 5201. Thememory device is used for storing executable software for operating thelight as well as tracking light data such as total “on” time, usagetimes and events and other data as described herein. Those skilled inthe art will recognize the data may be imported and/or exported from thememory.

FIG. 53 is a rear view of a portable light fastening assembly 5300 withthe locking bar in an unfastened position in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The latching mechanism is shown in itsextended position to unlatch the engagement member 5307 from within thereceptacle housing 5309. When the latch 5301 is in its extendedposition, it is rotated about point 5302 so that the protuberance 5303is moved out of and/or retracted from the notched section 5305.Thereafter, the portable light 5301 can be removed from the receptaclehousing 5309 for use and/or servicing at another location.

FIGS. 54 and 55 illustrate the portable light fastening assembly used inconnection with a table stand in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. The light and table stand 5400 are used in combination withthe engagement member 5401 in situations where objects such as tablets,keyboards or the like can be placed under the UV lighting on a table topsurface. The table stand 5403 includes a mounting shaft 5405 having anopening 5407 at its top edge. The mounting shaft 5405 may be angledforward and connects at a lower end 5409 to a surface stand 5411.Although the surface stand 5411 is shown in a U-shaped configuration, itwill be evident to those skilled in the art that other configurations ofthe legs e.g. V-shaped, H-shaped, X-shaped orientations etc. are alsopossible. As seen in FIG. 55, when in use in a table top environment5500, the engagement member 5401 is inserted into the opening 5407allowing the portable light 5400 to be used on a table top surface sothat objects placed under the light for microbial disinfection. AlthoughFIG. 55 illustrates both a keyboard 5501 and a mouse 5503 positionedunder the portable light, those skilled in the art will recognize otherobjects are electronic devices subject to human touch may also be usedin combination with the portable light.

FIG. 56 illustrates a perspective view of the portable light fasteningassembly 5600 used with a point of sale device mount in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention while FIG. 57 illustrates a sideview of the portable light fastening assembly as seen in FIG. 56. BothFIG. 56 and FIG. 57 illustrate the light assembly 5600 where the shade5601 connects with a support member 5603 having an angled section 5605.The angled section 5605 extends approximately at a 45 degree angledownwardly from the support member 5603 where it extends in an outwardlyto form attachment member 5607 and attachment member 5609 having a gapthere between. Attachment member 5607 and attachment member 5609 arepositioned in a plane substantially parallel to the support member 5603.Thus, attachment members 5607, 5609 and 5611 are positioned to form anorthogonal notch for fastening the adjustable attachment device to a topedge of a point of sale (POS) device. As seen in FIG. 57, on theunderside surfaces of the attachment members 5707, 5709 and 5711 aretape and/or adhesive material used to fixedly attach the portable lightfastening assembly 5700 to the edge a point-of-sale (POS) device. Whenheld in a fixed position, the UV light assembly 5700 work to disinfectthe touch surfaces of the POS device using UV light from the portablelight.

FIG. 58 illustrates a perspective view of the portable light fasteningassembly as shown in FIG. 56 used on a POS device. The POS system 5800includes a first checkout device 5801 having an LCD touch screen or thelike. The POS system 5800 is used where purchased goods are oftenscanned and recorded before checkout and payment. At the upper portion5805 of the first checkout device 5801, a portable light 5803 isattached using its orthogonal notch to an upper edge of the devicehousing. This allows the portable light 5803 to project UV lightdownwardly onto the surface of the touch screen LCD. Similarly, a secondcheckout device 5807 is often used for payment such as credit cardswiping or the like. At an upper surface of the second checkout device5807, a portable light 5809 utilizes a POS mount 5811 where theattachment members are adhered using the orthogonal notch to an upperedge surface of the second checkout device 5807. This secures the UVlight into a fixed position so that all touch surfaces of the secondcheckout device 5807 can be disinfected of microbial bacteria.

Embodiments of the present application include but are not limited to aportable light fastening assembly for use with a human interface of anelectronic device that includes a lamp housing and an adjustableattachment device extending from the lamp housing. An ultra-violet (UV)light source is enclosed in the lamp housing where the adjustableattachment device includes an engagement member and a receptacle housingsuch that the engagement member can be removably fastened within thereceptacle housing for holding the lamp housing in a fixed position.

Modifications of the invention will occur to those skilled in the artand to those who make or use the invention. Therefore, it is understoodthat the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above aremerely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope ofthe invention, which is defined by the following claims as interpretedaccording to the principles of patent law, including the doctrine ofequivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A germicidal system for use in disinfecting ahuman interface device comprising: a housing defining an aperture; anultra-violet (UV) light source at least partially enclosed in thehousing and configured to project an illumination pattern; an attachmentdevice extending from the housing; a sensor; and an indicator lightsource at least partially enclosed in the housing, wherein theattachment device is configured to removably attach to a separate humaninterface device for disinfecting a touch surface of the human interfacedevice, wherein the human interface device comprises at least one of akeyboard and a mouse, and wherein when the attachment device is attachedto the human interface device, the illumination pattern substantiallycorresponds to the touch surface, wherein the sensor is configured todetect motion in a monitored area, wherein the monitored area is greaterthan the touch surface, and to turn the UV light source from on to offwhen motion is detected, and wherein the sensor is configured tofunction in conjunction with at least one of the keyboard and the mouseto detect activation of the human interface device to turn the UV lightsource from on to off when activation is detected, and wherein theindicator light source comprises a plurality of light sources andindicates the disinfectant status of the touch surface and an operatingcondition of the UV light source.
 2. The germicidal system of claim 1,further configured to track and store usage data.
 3. The germicidalsystem of claim 1, further comprising at least one work light forilluminating an area surrounding the human interface device.
 4. Thegermicidal system of claim 1, further comprising a memory device storingone or more executable software routines, wherein the one or moreexecutable software routines are configured to be updated using a wiredor wireless connection.
 5. The germicidal system of claim 4, wherein adisinfection cycle length is configured to be adjusted by updating theone or more executable software routines.
 6. The germicidal system ofclaim 1, wherein the UV light source comprises a 1 W cold cathodefluorescent lamp.
 7. The germicidal system of claim 1, furthercomprising a manual control to turn the UV light source on and off.